Marathon Training

I know I already posted that I went ahead and registered for the 2011 Marine Corps Marathon, but because the general registration has been opened and the marathon has already sold out, it's time for another post about my marathon running plans.

Prior to recent events, I was very tentative about the idea of being able to train and participate in a 2011 marathon. I wasn't sure if my body was up to it or if my knee would recuperate quickly enough for that to be a real possibility. I realize that I need to take my recovery slow and not push my body too hard, at least not yet, but I'm much more optimistic that this will be the year I officially become a marathon runner.

I've run several two mile runs with no lasting pain. Of course, these runs have been on very flat terrain or treadmills with a 1.0% incline, but it's two more miles than I could run six months ago. The previous training schedule I used was a 20-week schedule and it picked up where a runner could comfortable run 6 miles. I'll need to start following the training schedule mid-June. That means that by about the end of May I need to comfortably be able to run six miles. That's three months. I think it's realistic.

The Marine Corps Marathon is unique in that it is the third or fourth largest marathon in the U.S. and it is THE largest marathon that doesn't offer a cash prize to the winners. Because of this, it has been nicknamed "The People's Marathon." I think that's appropriate. The people that choose to run the MCM really have nothing to gain (well, maybe going for the BQ time?) other than pride in accomplishing a goal alongside thousands of other participants.

Competitive runners sometimes cringe at amateur runners like myself participating in marathons. My goal is not to win, my goal is merely to finish. Does it disrespect the sport? I don't think so. I think it creates a lot more respect. It's one thing to be able to survive running 26.2 miles - it's another thing to maintain a pace of 5:45 per mile the entire way, something I don't think I'll even be able to do for a single mile in my lifetime. I don't think mere participation in a marathon disrespects running any more than playing a recreational softball team disrespects professional baseball. We're not all going to be all-star athletes, but isn't the important thing that we can share enjoyment of a sport at our individual levels?

I'm looking forward to running my first marathon with thousands of other people that just want to finish. If I decide to do it a second time (and if my body will allow it), maybe I'll consider adding a little more competition into the mix!